People living in Rutland are being asked for comments and feedback about leisure and recreation in the County, as part of the Future Rutland Conversation.

The leisure and recreation conversation runs until Monday 3 May and is about better understanding what people need from their leisure time in Rutland, so this can be incorporated into a new vision for the count.

Everyone's voice counts, whether you take part in organised sport, can't wait to visit local attractions or you're an avid walker. Rutland County Council wants people right across Rutland to share their views on leisure and recreation in the county. As part of the leisure and recreation conversation there will also be virtual discussions taking place to have meaningful conversations on leisure and what people see for the future of leisure and recreation in the county. These can be accessed online or by phone.

The council's Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Recreation, Cllr Lucy Stephenson said: "The Future Rutland Conversation on leisure and recreation will focus on how individuals and families spend their free time as we all know how important these are to our physical and mental well – being.

"With COVID-19 lockdown measures easing it's the perfect time to take part in the conversation: as has been noted many, many people explored new hobbies and activities during the pandemic; we want to know all about them and whether or not these habits are intended to continue as life returns to 'normal'. We want to hear from as many different communities and people as possible because we want views from people at all different life stages."

Coun Stephenson continued: "The Future Rutland Conversation on Leisure is about better understanding what people need from their leisure time in Rutland and incorporating that into a vision for the entire county based on people's aspirations for the future."

As part of the eight week engagement, called the Future Rutland Conversation, Rutland County Council has launched a new online engagement platform and is hosting a series of virtual conversations, which are open to everyone. The views collected during the engagement will inform the vision and aspirations for the county and future council strategies and policies. Past engagement work will also be fed into the conversations.

Information on how to sign up and take part in the Leisure and Recreation Conversation can be found at: www.rutland.gov.uk/futurerutland. If you want to take part but don't have access to the internet, please call Rutland County Council on: 01572 722 577.